Christiane BeyaHome to the CN Tower, international super star(s), multiculturalism and a lavish film festival, Toronto is also known for its delicious cuisines.
With districts such as Little Italy, Little Portugal, Greektown, Koreatown and more you can find just about any type of dish inside as well as outside the core of the city.
We all enjoy a good evening out perhaps with family and close friends and since Toronto might as well be the hub for excellent food (this may or may not be debatable) the city has just as many great restaurants for brunches.
If you already live in the city or if you are simply visiting, these four restaurants are the right places for you to begin your early afternoons.
Insomnia
From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday (and holidays) Insomnia serves a combination of international comfort foods that are likely to hit the unknown spot in your stomach. Settled in the heart of Toronto’s annex, this popular brunch spot provides warm services in a calm and chill environment which is exactly the type of place you would want to eat your elaborate waffles. For those with a sweet tooth, or if you would rather indulge in something a little more savory, Insomnia has the right dish (and drink) for you.
Harlem Underground
Harlem Underground is a celebration of Toronto’s diverse multicultural identity while emphasizing the art of entertainment. Its inspiration comes from the Harlem renaissance in the 1920s and the restaurant has re-birthed its creativity through their flavourful menu. The establishment serves a blend Afro-American and Afro-Caribbean meals with their own twist. Before 4 p.m. hits head on over to Harlem Underground – we recommend trying their chicken and waffles, it is finger licking good.
Old School
If you are looking for a place that offers a fresh glance on classic eateries while simultaneously reminiscing on more wholesome times when eating out was a breeze (the imagery is even better in person) then look no further than Old School. Their menu is closely tied to traditional BBQ that offers more than the average ‘round-the-clock breakfast. Each dish is based on home-style classics and to understand why its more than just a twist on comfort food you need to visit the restaurant (their Blueberry Hill Hotcakes will give you all the answers).
Le Petit Déjeuner
Who does not enjoy a European breakfast? Well for those of us who can not make it to the Northeast hemisphere of the globe (we feel you) you are one streetcar away from a mini European inspired brunch eatery. Le Petit Déjeuner is a family run business that specializes in Belgian-Canadian food with ingredients that come from local markets and farms. Their Brussels style waffles are airy and crispy, not to mention they are only sweetened by accompaniments that adds the perfect balance of flavour.
Take sometime out of your weekday or weekend mornings to try these restaurants. Follow @HOLRMagazine on Twitter and Instagram for more updates.